Parents, it is important that you remember, you are ALWAYS modeling behavior for your child to learn. The way that your child sees you behaving around others is very likely to be repeated. When you do things to or around your dog (or other non-human animal), your son or daughter may end up doing that too. To help your child be someone who your dog will want to spend time around, model and teach your child instead what he/she can do that will give your dog reason to feel comfortable, safe and happy. (Please keep reading to learn how you can see that your dog is or is not feeling that way.) [Read more…] about Parents: You Are Always Modeling Behavior
Young Families
Should Your Child Walk Your Dog?
Should your child walk your dog on a leash? There is a lot to think about, even for adults. Every dog is different, so I may teach loose leash walking differently depending on the dog…and the handler. And I may break down the behavior in many smaller components. Keep in mind, that maintaining no tension while walking with a rope attached to your body (and the body of a human) while passing things that are scary, exciting or just interesting is NOT a skill most dogs were born with. Before you hand off that leash to your young child to hold, I hope that you will take a few minutes to read this post. [Read more…] about Should Your Child Walk Your Dog?
How To Greet An Unknown Dog
There has been a lot published about the subject of how to greet an unknown dog. Many written with kids and dogs in mind, and dog bite prevention. Ask permission from the handler. Ask permission from the dog. Allow the dog to approach you. Stand sideways, present your fist or palm, and let the dog sniff you first. These are all generally good tips. I wanted to delve into this further to share more information. [Read more…] about How To Greet An Unknown Dog